The review process
The terms of reference of the Review outline what the Review will cover and define its scope.
The Review team will be researching and consulting with people and groups who have interest, experience or expertise in QCAT’s operations.
The Review will also publish a series of background and issues papers on this website. Background papers will give background information relevant for the Review. Issues papers will include questions and invite formal submissions in response to the questions and issues.
These papers will be published from September 2025, with submissions open until 30 November 2025.
You can also tell the Review your story about your personal experience with QCAT by completing the form on this website.
Submissions
Anyone can make a submission, either relating to issues in the papers or other topics in the terms of reference
Submissions are usually published on the website in accordance with the submissions policy. Unless you request otherwise, the final report may include quotes from submissions to reflect different views and perspectives.
Submissions can be made during the Review’s consultation period. The Review will be progressively releasing issues papers on the topics under review. The issues papers will invite you to make submissions in response to particular questions or issues under review.
More information about how you can make a submission will be included in each issues paper.
Submissions do not have to follow any particular format. We prefer you to answer the questions we ask in the issues papers, but you do not have to answer all of them. If you think anything else is relevant to the particular issue then you are not limited by the questions which are asked.
You can also share your stories and views by completing the share your story form on the website during the consultation period. You can share your story either in addition to, or instead of, making a submission. Only submissions will be published.
Consultations
The Review will consult with QCAT decision-makers and staff, government departments, courts, legal professionals, industry groups, businesses groups, and organisations representing QCAT customers.
Consultation meetings and roundtables with key stakeholders and peak bodies will also be held.
If you would like to be notified of the release of the background and issues papers, please email qcatactreview@justice.qld.gov.au.
Recommendations
The Review will use submissions, feedback from consultations and the stories shared with the Review, and detailed research to shape reform proposals.
Recommendations will be based on submissions, consultations, research, and extensive experience with QCAT operations and the civil justice system.
Final report
The final report with recommendations will be given to the Attorney-General by 30 April 2026, however it will not be made public until it is tabled in Parliament by the Attorney-General.
Overview
This is an overview of the Review process.
| Activity | Dates |
|---|---|
| Early research and preliminary meetings with stakeholders | Jun-Jul 2025 |
| Research and drafting of papers | Aug 2025 |
| Progressive release of background and issues papers | Sept-Oct 2025 |
| Consultation period with submissions closing 30 November 2025 | Oct and Nov 2025 |
| Consideration of feedback | Dec-Jan 2026 |
| Formulation of proposals | Feb-Mar 2026 |
| Finalisation of report | April 2026 |